News

Bales' Sculpture on Display in Adams Gallery

10/22/2006

12:47 pm

By:

cumbu

"Star Flock" by Judy Bales

The Adams Gallery at Cumberland University will host an exhibit of sculptures by South Carolina native Judy Bales from August 24 until September 25. Entitled "Judy Bales: Wrapped and Folded," the exhibit represents the first of the 2009-2010 academic year for the Adams Gallery.

A reception for Bales will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 22 from 5 until 7 p.m. and will include a 6 p.m. gallery talk.

Bales' work reflects her interest in exploring the potential for metals and other man-made materials used to create textiles or woven objects. Materials often seem to contradict their intended industrial purpose -- cold and rigid materials such as metal may be used to form structures that create warmth, lyricism and movement. Other times, the opposite is true, with soft, pliable fabrics transformed into objects with form and solidity.

"The integration of opposites speaks of the fluidity and connectivity of the physical world and all of life," Bales, who currently makes her home in Iowa, explained.

Educated at Auburn University and the University of Georgia, Bales studied traditional fiber arts in graduate school. Gradually, her work became more and more three-dimensional, moving into the area of freestanding sculpture. Over the past several years, she has transitioned into designing monumental public art projects, in particular enhancements to bridge structures. She has received a number of commissions and grants for these structures, located across the United States.

Located in the June & Bill Heydel Fine Arts Center on the CU campus, the Adams Gallery is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. There is no charge for admission. The Sept. 22 reception and gallery talk will also be held in the Adams Gallery.